The Student Events Manager oversees the planning and execution of National Geographic Education’s student events. The manager is based at National Geographic headquarters in Washington, D.C., working within the Education division as a lead member of the Experiences staff, and remotely manages events across the U.S. The manager is responsible for producing annual national, state and regional events, held in conjunction with the state level National Geographic Bee and GeoChallenge and other programs that best support National Geographic’s goal to inspire students to be explorers. The manager also collaborates closely with staff organizing educator facing events when these occur concurrently with student events.
- Manage the relationship between headquarters staff and local staff in regards to state and regional event logistics. Plan student experiences, oversee event scheduling, and coordinate with local (contracted) event producers, Bee coordinators, regional directors, Geography Stewards, and managers. Coordinate with program managers (Bee, GeoChallenges, Citizen Science, Explorer Magazine, Museum, Explorer Programs, and NGP leads) and regional network staff. Hire contract event producers, secure technical support, and arrange for volunteers. Orchestrate NG staff presence, work with Explorers team to arrange and book NG grantees, and support teacher facing programs done in conjunction with student events. (40%)
- Oversee staffing and logistics for student events at headquarters, and other events for students. Secure operations and technical support and arrange for NG staffing and volunteers. (15%)
- Book venues for state festivals, ensuring adequate space for educational functions, hospitality, parking, and access. Negotiate with venues and arrange for insurance coverage in compliance with NG requirements. Ensure photo releases are distributed and collected. Create and distribute technical rider. Negotiate and confirm AV support (20%)
- Manage fulfillment of material for educational, marketing, promotional, and functional needs, including collateral, props, prizes, decoration, swag and signage for student experiences. Seek opportunities with NGS units, NGP, partners, and sponsors for presence of films, video, books and other appropriate opportunities appealing to students and families. Works with Marketing & Engagement to ensure brand and Society messaging is accurate and effective at all festivals, including media and signage. (15%)
- Assist with educator and other events as needed. Stay current on NGS mission and values, and participate in department-wide initiatives. Stay up-to-date on research and development in K-12 education, and educational technology. (10%)
Minimum Years and Type of Experience
- 3-5 years experience managing events for students, educators, and/or general public. Must have experience handling multiple tasks, working in simultaneous events in different time zones. Experience in formal or informal educational settings a plus.
Knowledge and Skills Required
- Excellent written, verbal, and digital communication skills.
- Excellent organizational skills, and ability to prioritize and work under deadlines.
- Ability to tend to multiple projects simultaneously.
- Strong attention to detail. Excellent networking skills and ability to rally volunteer support.
- System for tracking and sharing progress on multiple projects and communicating clearly with colleagues, partners, and contracted parties.
- Proficiency with software including Microsoft Office, Mac OS, and at least familiarity with Adobe products.
- Collaborative team player, capable of working independently and being resourceful when required.
National Geographic's headquarters is located in the heart of Washington, D.C. In addition to a unique and dynamic work environment, National Geographic offers its employees a comprehensive benefits package, including health and dental benefits, generous vacation and leave time, a 401(k) plan, and flexible work options. National Geographic is an Equal Opportunity Employer